The ADAT interface can be used to bring in digital sources or to add extra preamps such as Focusrite's OctoPre Mk II, bringing the mic pre complement to 16 channels, ideal for recording a complete band and minimizing overdubs.

High channel count and Focusrite quality - now on USB 2.0 and iOSScarlett 18i20 is the USB complement of the tried and tested Saffire PRO 40 Firewire interface. Suitable for Windows, Mac and even iOS (with the Camera Connection Kit*) platforms, Scarlett 18i20's USB 2.0 connection suits almost any computer, helping you build a setup in which external storage and audio interfaces do not have to share the same computer bus (recommended for the best performance) - if you have Firewire drives, for example, a USB audio interface is the best choice.

Note: Includes the Focusrite Red 2 and Red 3 Plug-In Suite (AAX/AU/VST) upon registration of interface. Accurately modeled on the classic Red 2 EQ and Red 3 Compressor, the Red plug-ins let you exploit the sound of the hardware originals, conveniently from within Pro Tools (10 and above) and other audio software.

FEATURES

Eight high-quality award-winning Focusrite preamps

24-bit/96kHz USB 2.0 interface compatible with Mac, Windows and iOS

18 inputs & 20 outputs

Dual independent headphone buses

Scarlett MixControl ultra-low-latency DSP mixer/router

Unmatched routing flexibility

Comprehensive bundle of included software

Put the power of 8 Focusrite preamps to work on your Mac, PC, or iOS device.

If you had to choose between this or the Presonus Audiobox 1818VSL, then it's a no brainer that this is your choice.

I previously owned the 1818vsl, which is roughly similar. The unit was very unreliable (kept popping, had to reflash the firmware to stop it from overbuffering). Then, i switched to this, and all my problems went away.

It has more features, such as toggling the front inputs to be instruments, along with padding. The knobs weren't so linear in volume (i had a little bit of a tough time adjusting sensitivity past 80% to match my SM57s for my acoustic guitar), so it's hard to adjust on the fly. It's a full rack, with a full depth (unlike the 1818vsl which is not as deep). So, it's slightly heavier and not as mobile. But, if you have a rack mount, it probably won't matter to you.

The only con I put was that you can't control the volume though the OS, like Presonus (and i think MOTU) does. But, I think that's to prevent the underbuffering sound I got using the Presonus. But, I can deal with changing the volume by physically reaching for the volume knob (or using the mixer's volume).

VS

Most Liked Negative Review

Sounds Nice. Quality Control Issues

I bought this as an upgrade to my cheaper interface. I heard a lot about Focusrite's preamps and I was really intrigued by a new line of USB interfaces from that company. The first...Read complete review

I bought this as an upgrade to my cheaper interface. I heard a lot about Focusrite's preamps and I was really intrigued by a new line of USB interfaces from that company. The first one I bought sounded great, when it worked. For whatever reason, it kept disconnecting. It was also hit or miss about recognizing the inputs I was sending it. I would do everything correctly in the DAW and, for whatever reason, the interface would not recognize certain inputs. Sometimes it was random. For example, inputs 1, 2 and 4 would record and 3 would be dead. Yes, I checked to see if cables were plugged in, phantom power was engaged etc. It happened all the time and seemed to have no rhyme or reason. Usually a reboot or two would fix it.

So, took it back to the retailer and they were great about giving me a new unit. The second unit did not drop the connection like the first one, but the random failure to record certain ins continued. I gave up and just accepted that a few reboots might be required before I could start a session.

Then the button to switch from instrument to line level broke on channel 1. It got stuck on instrument for a while until I somehow managed to disengage it. I pulled out the button and found that it had snapped off inside the unit. And, no I did not press the buttons hard or otherwise abuse the unit. Now channel 1 is no longer able to toggle between instrument and line. Not too much of a big deal because I have an Octopre (two additional instrument /line ins) and I rarely record more than one direct in (bass) at any given time. However, since all the buttons are of the same construction, it WILL be a big deal if, for example, one of my phantom power switches goes the same way. I'm not happy about this. However, I don't want to be without the unit for however long it takes to send it back (for a second time). So I live with it.

At any rate, the unit sounds great. But, its build quality and reliability have left me wanting. It kind of bugs me that I have to keep "living with" shortcomings on this unit.

I see a few negative reviews for this product, and I felt the need to write my own. First and foremost, it is unfortunate to hear that a few people have had issues with the sound quality, and overall performance of this interface.

I personally am in love with this piece of equipment. I have owned the 18i20 for almost 2 years and it has been nothing short of amazing. Keep in mind that this is an entry level interface, but for the money you certainly get a great starting point. I have this paired via fiber to a OctoPre MkII Dynamic. The mic pres on this bad boy are great, and comparable to those twice its price.

With that said, if you have the money I would suggest looking into the ISA range. However, this interface will deliver consistent, quality sound while providing an above average A/D-D/A conversion. I have about 10 years of experience recording in a Home/Project studio setting, and the setup that I currently have (18i20 + Octopre) is the most user/budget friendly system on the market. Best of luck!

The Scarlett 18i20 is a great interface for the money. I've been using this interface for almost a year now with rock solid performance. The preamps are excellent and Mix Control is sweet. My only small complaint is that phantom power is supplied in banks of 4 but it's no deal breaker. For quality, sound and reliability for the money this interface can't be beat.

I'm not sure why others are having issues with this interface. I purchased mine a couple months ago and have used it extensively with no issues. Works fantastic with an iPAD and multi-track app. Works well with PC and MAC units as well.

It's hard to believe that Focusrite created an interface that sounded this bad. There was a high pitched whining noise which varies as you moved the mouse around the screen. I tried multiple USB cards but nothing helped. I mistakenly considered this an 'upgrade' from my M-Audio 2626. This definitely was not the case. I returned this one to the store. BTW I also own their OctoPre MkII which actually sounds pretty good.

I bought this as an upgrade to my cheaper interface. I heard a lot about Focusrite's preamps and I was really intrigued by a new line of USB interfaces from that company. The first one I bought sounded great, when it worked. For whatever reason, it kept disconnecting. It was also hit or miss about recognizing the inputs I was sending it. I would do everything correctly in the DAW and, for whatever reason, the interface would not recognize certain inputs. Sometimes it was random. For example, inputs 1, 2 and 4 would record and 3 would be dead. Yes, I checked to see if cables were plugged in, phantom power was engaged etc. It happened all the time and seemed to have no rhyme or reason. Usually a reboot or two would fix it.

So, took it back to the retailer and they were great about giving me a new unit. The second unit did not drop the connection like the first one, but the random failure to record certain ins continued. I gave up and just accepted that a few reboots might be required before I could start a session.

Then the button to switch from instrument to line level broke on channel 1. It got stuck on instrument for a while until I somehow managed to disengage it. I pulled out the button and found that it had snapped off inside the unit. And, no I did not press the buttons hard or otherwise abuse the unit. Now channel 1 is no longer able to toggle between instrument and line. Not too much of a big deal because I have an Octopre (two additional instrument /line ins) and I rarely record more than one direct in (bass) at any given time. However, since all the buttons are of the same construction, it WILL be a big deal if, for example, one of my phantom power switches goes the same way. I'm not happy about this. However, I don't want to be without the unit for however long it takes to send it back (for a second time). So I live with it.

At any rate, the unit sounds great. But, its build quality and reliability have left me wanting. It kind of bugs me that I have to keep "living with" shortcomings on this unit.

Purchased this unit after reviewing several similar interfaces in this price range, and this thing does not disappoint!!! The pre-amps on this unit are so clean and clear sounding, and it is so easy to set up, install, and use!!! I'm running this thing with Sonar X2, and it integrates flawlessly,and it has enough inputs and outs for any home recording set up. A tremendous product!!!

Has great features Mixcontrol looks confusing but its easy once you get the hang of it most of the settings work great as is. Plug in monitiors and its ready to go some older M-Audio interfaces made you go and configure your monitiors from time to time which was confusing and bothersome. Everything works great built like a tank knobs feel soild i like the channel screen that lets you know when you have a signal/clipping on the 8 mic/inst inputs. 2 headphone outs i do recommend a headphone amp for a extra boost. Sound is clear and looks great in my studio rack. I highly recommend this product for people looks for more inputs/outputs and routing options.

I switch to this from a Motu Ultralite Mk3 Hybrid because I was not happy with the preamps, conversion, and not enough I/O. This is the top entry level audio interface you can buy in this price range. You get the ability to expand it with the included ADAT, Word clock, and Spdif options. You can add a Octo-Pre for an additional 8 channels which gives you 16 channels of mic inputs. There is room for outboard pres and other gear you have too. Now the sound quality is awesome for what you get. If you like a nice rounded low end and tight detailed mids, and tight high end then this is the right interface and preamp option for you. You won't have to worry about the preamps sounding thin in this unit cause they are FULL in a good way. The AD/DA conversion in this unit is better than ANY lower end interface on the market and will rival mid range interfaces and IMHO better than what I was getting in the Motu. The plugin software that you have to download is really nice especially the compressor! The drivers are very solid, just install them and forget it. I have not had one blue screen of death since I got mine in April. Overall, this is the best you can get at this price or less with all the options that you get. I almost forgot the two headphone outputs which is a plus! I would say if you are looking at this unit stop now and go BUY it cause it is worth at least a few hundred more than what it is selling for.

If you had to choose between this or the Presonus Audiobox 1818VSL, then it's a no brainer that this is your choice.

I previously owned the 1818vsl, which is roughly similar. The unit was very unreliable (kept popping, had to reflash the firmware to stop it from overbuffering). Then, i switched to this, and all my problems went away.

It has more features, such as toggling the front inputs to be instruments, along with padding. The knobs weren't so linear in volume (i had a little bit of a tough time adjusting sensitivity past 80% to match my SM57s for my acoustic guitar), so it's hard to adjust on the fly. It's a full rack, with a full depth (unlike the 1818vsl which is not as deep). So, it's slightly heavier and not as mobile. But, if you have a rack mount, it probably won't matter to you.

The only con I put was that you can't control the volume though the OS, like Presonus (and i think MOTU) does. But, I think that's to prevent the underbuffering sound I got using the Presonus. But, I can deal with changing the volume by physically reaching for the volume knob (or using the mixer's volume).